We were lucky to catch up with Abril Andrade recently and have shared our conversation below.

Abril, appreciate you joining us today. Are you happier as a creative? Do you sometimes think about what it would be like to just have a regular job? Can you talk to us about how you think through these emotions?

Yes, I’m happy being an artist. It’s not always easy there are moments of doubt, frustration, and uncertainty but creating art gives me a sense of purpose and connection that nothing else does. It allows me to express myself, challenge myself, and continuously grow. Seeing my work resonate with others, even in small ways, makes the journey meaningful.

I do sometimes think about what it would be like to have a regular job. And I’ve had seasonal Part Time Jobs before.

There’s a certain appeal to stability, routine, and knowing exactly what to expect. But at the same time, I know I’d miss the freedom and creativity that come with being an artist. Even though the path can be uncertain, the fulfillment I get from creating and sharing my work outweighs the idea of a more conventional job at least for now.

Abril, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I’ve been drawn to art for as long as I can remember. From coloring on my bedroom walls to bringing my dreams to life on paper, art has always played a major role in my life. My mother was one of my biggest supporters always providing me with tools to spark my creativity and encouraging me to follow my passion.

Even as a child, my work had its own unique style, and expressive, baby doll eyes became a signature element in my pieces.

A year after graduating high school, I took a leap of faith and followed my passion across the ocean. I discovered a Fine Art school in Lleida, Spain, and made the life-changing decision to move there. Living on my own in a new country pushed me far out of my comfort zone but it also helped me grow both as a person and an artist. I spent my days exploring European museums, drawing inspiration from the masters, and my evenings painting in small studios with tall windows and warm light. I made lasting friendships with fellow artists from all over the world, and even began learning Italian because one of my teachers spoke only Italian, and I refused to let a language barrier hold me back. That experience wasn’t just about developing my technique; it taught me how to be resilient, open-minded, and fearless in both life and art.

When I returned to the United States, I came back with more than just sketchbooks full of memories I came back with a clear vision. I had experienced firsthand how powerful and fulfilling a creative life could be, and I was determined to turn my passion into something sustainable. My first step into the business side of art came through an eBay auction, where I sold my very first painting for $20. At the time, eBay was a thriving platform for artists selling original work, and that one sale lit a spark in me. From that point on, I committed myself fully I was painting three to five pieces a day, listing them in my eBay store, and steadily building a following of collectors who connected with my style.

As my confidence and experience grew, so did my ambitions. I eventually decided to take a bold step forward: I launched my own website and online store, creating a space where my art could live independently, beyond third-party platforms. That transition marked a turning point one where I fully embraced my identity not just as an artist, but as a creative entrepreneur.

When communicating with potential clients/collectors its important to let them know that Art Is Not a Hobby for me It’s my Lifeline.
I create instinctively. Art is how I process the world, my emotions, and my dreams. Every piece is a reflection of my inner self it’s deeply personal, not just decorative. I blend Pop Surrealism with storytelling to create pieces that feel dreamlike yet emotionally real. A Whimsical Innocence paired effortlessly with Creepy Delusion

Collecting My Art Means Owning a Piece of a Fantasy World shaped by the life I’ve lived.
When someone purchases my art, they’re entering my world a space full of imagination, emotion, and surreal beauty. My work invites viewers to escape, reflect, and connect.

One of the things I’m most proud of is how far my art has reached and the meaningful connections it’s created. Over the years, I’ve built a portfolio of over 2,000 original pieces, each one sold and living in homes, studios, and collections around the world. My work has found its way into the hands of celebrities and musicians, something that still feels surreal and humbling. I’ve also been spotlighted in tattoo magazines and featured in art books, which has been incredibly rewarding as someone who’s always poured heart and imagination into every piece. More than the numbers or features, though, I’m proud that I’ve stayed true to my style, turned my passion into a career, and connected with so many people through my creative voice.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

My journey as an artist hasn’t always been easy, but it’s been built on resilience, love, and the constant drive to grow—not just for myself, but for my daughter. As a single mother to a very artistically gifted teenager, I carry a responsibility that goes beyond creating art.
I strive every day to lead by example to show her that it’s possible to build a life around your passion, even when the odds aren’t stacked in your favor.
There have been moments when I wasn’t sure how things would come together financial uncertainty, creative burnout, self-doubt but through it all, I kept painting.

Art has been both my escape and my anchor. And now, it’s something my daughter and I share. We paint side by side, talk about technique, challenge each other’s ideas, and dream together. She’s not just my inspiration she’s my motivation. She’s the reason I fight to be better each day, not only as an artist but as a mother, a mentor, and a woman.
Every piece I create holds part of that journey a quiet strength, a lesson learned, a moment of hope. And that’s what I want people to feel when they connect with my work: not perfection, but perseverance and purpose.

What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?

To truly support artists society needs to value art as essential, not optional. That means recognizing artists as professionals not just hobbyists and ensuring they are compensated fairly for their time, talent, and vision.

Access to affordable studio space, grant funding, and platforms to showcase work (both online and in real life) is crucial.
Education also plays a big role when schools invest in the arts and encourage creative thinking, they nurture the next generation of artists, innovators, and problem-solvers. Just as importantly, people can support creatives by buying directly from artists, sharing their work, attending local exhibitions, and treating art as something vital to culture, community, and well-being.
We thrive when we feel seen, supported, and respected not only for what we make, but for the deeper stories and labor behind it.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.abrilandrade.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abrilart
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/abril.art
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abrilandradeart
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/abrilart_

Image Credits

Luke Andrade